8 Places On Rice University’s Campus You Never Even Knew Existed

Think you’ve seen it all? You’ve probably been all the way around the campus and back again a hundred times. You’ve seen the beautiful, open fields and the flowing branches of shady trees. But, even after all that walking, jogging, and biking across campus, I’m willing to bet there are still a few awesome places around campus that you didn’t even know existed. Disagree? Check out these gorgeous photos by Marielle Brisbois (Brown ’15) and then check out the spots for yourself!

8. Sewall Courtyard

Via ru-observer.com

Located on the lowest floor of Sewall, this outdoor courtyard is absolutely beautiful, showing off a variety of interesting and innovative sculptures and equipment. Unless you’ve had a class down there, or had the curiosity to explore the Sewall landing dock, you won’t believe that you’ve been missing this!

7. Rice Memorial Chapel

Via ru-observer.com

Located just a few feet from the door of the student center, the Rice Memorial Chapel is a quaintly beautiful space to sit and reflect or to worship. Founded in 1958, the chapel features a shining golden apse in addition elegant stained glass, creating a tranquil space. Next time you feel the pressure of finals, you may want to poke your head in and take a deep breath.

6. The Bluebonnet Field

Via ru-observer.com

Located just a few steps outside of Wiess College in the Harris Gully Natural Area, this field is home to dozens of bluebonnets, Texas’s state flower. Stop by to admire the beauty—hold a quick photo-shoot, a Texan tradition. However, if you do end up modeling, you best get comfortable with bees because they flock to these sweet blossoms. While it might be tempting to bring a few back home, picking bluebonnets is not only highly frowned upon in Texas but also believed to bring bad karma! Pick at your own risk.

5. Central Campus Parking Garage

Via ru-observer.com

Built under the Jones School of Business, this underground garage provides parking to some of the nicest cars on the Rice campus. So, if you’re interested, stop by to see some pimped out Beamers, Bentleys, and Benz. And if you want to try parking in it next time you’re in a hurry, be ready to spend! Each 12 minutes is one dollar, with an $11 dollar daily maximum. There is a high price tag for this luxury!

4. Rice University Post Office

Via ru-observer.com

We bet you didn’t know that tucked right behind the Rice University Police Department building is a fully operational post office. Next time you’re by the media center or stadium, stop by to check it out! It can be helpful when you need to ship packages home. It’s a bit a of a walk, so if you’re too lazy or busy, you might try asking your college coordinator really nicely—he or she might be kind enough to send your letter for you!

3. The Library at the Jones School of Business

Via ru-observer.com

Officially titled the Gilbert & Ruth Whitaker Business Information Center, this library houses wood-paneled bookcases, tall, light-catching windows, wide, spacious work areas, and a whole host of business related literature. Next time you need to catch up on your work and want a complete silence, try checking out this hidden gem. Beware: food and talking are highly discouraged, so if you’re looking for a relaxed environment, this is not your place.

2. The Old Rec-Center Pool

Via ru-observer.com

Tucked away in a corner of Tudor Fieldhouse, this empty pool is a remnant of a faraway time, before the opening of state of the art Barbara and David Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center in 2009. Though it looks long closed, the pool features diving boards and pool equipment scattered around the deck. Today, it houses the Marching Owl Band’s props and sets and acts as an eerie reminder of days gone by.

1. The Rowing Room

Via ru-observer.com

Also hidden inside the Tudor Fieldhouse, this interesting room features a host of rowing machines to help you work on your lats and triceps. With high ceilings and fans for ventilation, this room is a hidden treasure for the physically fit, who seek a more private place outside of the gym for a workout.